Black Surf

Black Surf

The black art of buying a wetsuit

The black art of buying a wetsuit

It's a fact that the majority of surfing over the last 50 years has migrated to more frigid water conditions. The birth of surfing was in warm water where a wetsuit was unnecessary and unavailable. This all changed when surfers looked for and found a material they could fashion into a suit that would keep them warm and comfortable. Early neoprene wetsuits were developed in the 1950's, they were at best crude and uncomfortable, but it gave surfers access to waves in cold water conditions. Today the modern wetsuit has evolved into a product that does a fine job at keeping us warm and comfortable. This all sounds fantastic, now we have access to water temperatures as low as 6c and can surf for 3-4 hours at a time. However a wetsuits performance is only as good as its fit, construction and thickness.

Let me elaborate, better an inexpensive wetsuit that fits you properly than an expensive suit that fits poorly.  Why?  A  functioning wetsuit only works because it has the ability to take on board a small amount of water, ideally just enough to wet the inside of the wetsuit and to retain it. To keep this warmed water trapped inside the wetsuit it needs to fit tight all over, high on the neck and snug against the small of the back. If this is not achieved the wetsuit will not seal, cold water will enter and flush warm water out of the suit. This will become evident the first time the wetsuit is used in the surf.

Most manufactures run sizes from XS to XXXL. These sizes will vary from one brand to the next as does the shape of their wetsuits.  This means the prospective buyer has to match their body to a wetsuit shape and size to obtain the best fit, rather than selecting a wetsuit only on brand preference.

Cheaper wetsuits generally start with the Flatlock construction. This type is regarded as an introduction wetsuit. Flatlock is a type of stitching used to put the suit together, It has the disadvantage that the seams leak letting in cold water and flushing the warm water through the suit making you feel colder and reducing your time in the surf. Typically this a mid-summer suit with limited use.

The Blindstitched wetsuit - this type of construction eliminates leakage through the seams, which results in the small amount of water trapped inside of the suit being retained and warmed by the body. The thickness of the neoprene creates a thermal barrier between the body and the outside conditions. Typically in water temperatures of between 12c – 17c the wetsuit of choice for most surfers will have 3mm neoprene thickness in the body panels and 2mm in the shoulders, arms and legs. These two thicknesses will give warmth to the body and flexibility to the limbs.

As the water and air temperatures drop, the thickness of the suit has to increase to maintain warmth; most wetsuits during our UK winter period will be 5mm on the body panels and 3 or 4 mm on the limbs.

Wetsuit longevity is your responsibility, look after it. It's got an important job to do. In my experience, not baking it in the sun, washing it out after a surf and not peeing in it, is all good stuff; but the most important wetsuit preservation tip I have to offer is, put it on and take it off carefully, as over- stretching neoprene will damage it's elastic qualities leaving you with a cold and baggy wetsuit.

Boardwalk Surf Shop stock a variety of Wetsuit Brands Including O'Neill, Billabong, Alder,Animal, Rhino, Xcel and C-Skins.

About the Author

Glenn has been surfing since the 70's and enjoys lots of different watersports Surfing and Sailing being two which he enjoys the most. Having grown up in Newquay Cornwall Glenn has enjoyed watching Surf technologies develop and has worked at Boardwalk Surf Shop as Wetsuit Guru for the last 5 years.

Rusty Tablas De Surf T-shirt - Black $20 Throw a fiesta after a stellar surf day in the Tablas De Surf tee from Rusty. It features graphics of skulls, waves, surf accesories and shapes in a colorful striped print for a festive look with a slightly eerie edge.

Oakley Surf Backpack - Black $100 The Oakley Surf backpack is like your home away from home. Among its numerous compartments and hiding spots one could fit just about everything needed to live away from home base — or at least snag some massive waves. It’s designed for wet and dry storage and features a specialized compartment on the bottom to hold soggy clothes or sandals with a questionable odor. The included stuff sack doubles as a changing mat so you don’t get sand in places that you didn’t even know existed. Your surfboard won’t feel neglected either, as this backpack has both a built-in wax comb and a bag for stashing extra wax. With this backpack, you could pack up your essentials, sell your home and unneeded possessions, and set off for adventure wherever waves break onto shore! (This advice is not meant to be taken literally. Please do not sell your home. You need a place to keep your fridge.)

Billabong Padang Surf Backpack - Black $74.5 An ideal day for you is spent from sunrise to sunset at the beach riding some gnarly waves with the rest of the dudes. Bring everything you need for a successful day surfing with this Padang Surf backpack by Billabong. With two large zippered compartments, this large backpack will easily fit all the gear you need. The main compartment features a place for a large laptop just in case you want to surf the web on your break from ridin’ the surf. A removable waterproof bag for storing your wetsuit and other wet gear is included, protecting the rest of your water-sensitive gear. Two side zipper compartments and a small front zipper compartment will secure the rest of your necessities as you journey around the world to conquer the biggest and baddest waves in history.

Roxy Surf Sunrise Black Juniors Beach Pants $24.99 Ultra comfy and lightweight, these Surf Sunrise beach pants by Roxy are the perfect pair to stroll along the shoreline in!

Go Barefoot Surf Flicks Black Button-Up Hawaiian Shirt $69 Showcase the legendary Surf Flicks that brought the love of the waves into homes everywhere with this button-up shirt from Go Barefoot featuring an all-over Hawaiian style print of classic surf movie posters!

Billabong Padang Surf Backpack -Black-Blue $74.5 An ideal day for you is spent from sunrise to sunset at the beach riding some gnarly waves with the rest of the dudes. Bring everything you need for a successful day surfing with this Padang Surf backpack by Billabong. With two large zippered compartments, this large backpack will easily fit all the gear you need. The main compartment features a place for a large laptop just in case you want to surf the web on your break from ridin’ the surf. A removable waterproof bag for storing your wetsuit and other wet gear is included, protecting the rest of your water-sensitive gear. Two side zipper compartments and a small front zipper compartment will secure the rest of your necessities as you journey around the world to conquer the biggest and baddest waves in history.

Dakine Point Black-Kernigan Surf Backpack $44.99 Go from school to the surf with ease when you keep all your necessities in this Point backpack by Dakine! It features a seam sealed wetsuit pocket, an organizer compartment and skate carry straps so you'll have everything you need for every aspect of your life.

Volcom Circle Stone Surf T-Shirt - Black $29.5 Show the waves who’s boss with the Circle Stone Surf tee by Volcom. It features an encircled Volcom stone logo printed on the front for rad style and a sewn-in bungee lanyard to hold your wax comb or keys at the back bottom hem. Way to dominate that ocean, brotha.

Hurley One & Only Surf Rashguard - Black $29.5 Protection should be your top priority when you grab your board and head to the shore. Give your upper half the care it deserves with Hurley’s One & Only surf shirt. This snug rashguard offers a UPF of 40+, defending your sensitive skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Its mega-stretchy, super-lightweight material allows for maximum flexibility on the waves, so you can bust out your greatest moves in ultimate comfort and security. Safety first, dude.

Quiksilver Fresh Surf Black Youth Long Sleeve Thermal Shirt $26 You young dude can put a new twist on sick surfer style with this Fresh Surf long sleeve thermal shirt by Quiksilver!

Roxy Surf Journey Juniors Rashguard - Black $42 You’ve come a long way since you first started surfing – even those lame guys who used to give you crap are now left in the dust! There’s nothing that can match the exhilarating feeling that washes over you as you catch a nice wave; and it doesn’t hurt when you see those same guys staring with their mouths open. You’re great at what you do – it’s as simple as that. Throw on this Surf Journey rashguard by Roxy the next time you hit the waves to give ‘em something to look at. Featuring “Roxy” screen printed across the front, ruching along the sides at the bottom, and a UPF protection of 50+, this comfy rashguard will draw all eyes on you as you conquer another gnarly wave.

Roxy Surf Shack Juniors Adjustable Hat - Black $26 The Surf Shack is a little old place where you and your girls can get together for a beach getaway. You hop in your girly-fied junker and head on down to the funky little shack where wax shavings cover the floor and the distinct scent of coconut oils and sunscreen fill the air. Best of all, it’s right next to your favorite spot to catch a few sets. It’s the place you feel most at home and Roxy knew that when they named this hat after your favorite spot. Featuring a heavily washed cotton construction with distressing on the bill and faded, rough brand embroidery across the crown, this adjustable cap is perfect for taming your mane post-set and will always be there for you with a laid-back and comfortable vibe.

Rip Curl Love 'n Surf 7'' Juniors Boardshort - Black $38 There’s nothing like feeling the salty ocean breeze against your skin and the soft, warm sand between your toes as you greet your greatest love: the roaring, angelic waves. Slip into a pair of these lightweight Love ‘n Surf boardshorts from Rip Curl that feature embroidered Rip Curl script lettering on the left leg on super-soft material. Don’t stall - the sea is calling your name.

Rip Curl Reflecto Surf Shirt - Black $32.95 Protect yourself from the sun while maintaining your excellent taste in surfwear with the Reflecto micromesh tee from Rip Curl. Perfect for hitting the waves, it features durable and breathable flatlock stitching, 50-plus UPF protection, mirrored branding on the chest and a slashed logo on the upper back for a fly mix of functional and fun.

Surf $10 Surf

DC Bruce Irons Black-Rasta Sandal $40 Be the first to sport pro DC surf style with these brand new Bruce Irons signature sandals!

Volcom Foster Lines Too Mod Black Boardshort $39.99 Kick out of boring surf style with these sick Foster Lines Too Mod boardshorts by Volcom's Modtech Collection!

Fourstar Tri Tone Pirate Black T-shirt $14.99 Rock the Tri Tone Pirate tee from Fourstar and go in search of some surf treasure!

Tavik Get On It T-shirt - Black $21 Lead the way with some sick surf tricks in the Get On It tee from Tavik, featuring a photographic collage with stylized lettering on the front and a brand stamp on the back yoke.

Dakine Recon Black/Checks Backpack $60 This Recon surf pack by Dakine has everything you need for a day at the beach, from a seam sealed wetsuit pocket to an insulated cooler pocket!

Volcom Black Zip Mechanico Wash Denim Jeans $39.99 Add a little spice to your surf style with the Black Zip jeans from Volcom featuring V stitching on the back pockets and a fit so relaxed you'll want to wear them everywhere!

Atlantic Surf at Black Rock Point $39.99 Raul Touzon Atlantic Surf at Black Rock Point - Photographic Print

Dakine Blocker Black Full Zip Hoodie $44.99 When the sun is caught behind clouds and the waves become chilly, zip up in the Blocker hoodie from Dakine and plan for the next surf-worthy day!

Quiksilver Waterman Pipeline Black Organic T-Shirt $21.99 Ride the edge of new surf style with the Pipeline organic tee from Quiksilver's premium Waterman Collection featuring a glossy heat transfer print and 100% cotton!

Volcom Black Zip Sure Shot Dark Denim Jeans $36.99 Add a little spice to your surf style with the Black Zip jeans from Volcom featuring V stitching on the back pockets and a fit so relaxed you'll want to wear them everywhere!

Billabong All Day Surf Cap (Black) $20 Billabong All Day Surf Cap (Black)

Electric Hoy Inc. Polarized Sunglasses - Gloss Black/Gray $140 The Hoy Inc. sunglasses from Electric are a tough-as-nails style inspired by Aussie surf hero Mr. Matt Hoy. Designed to look as good on the beach as they do out on the town, they share the same surf all day, party all night attitude that makes Matt Hoy a living legend.

Hawaiian Island Creations Klutch Black-Blue 4-Way Stretch Boardshorts $55 Put your surf style into overdrive in the Klutch boardshorts from HIC! They feature sublimated brand graphics, embroidery, 4-way Hydro Superstretch and no inseams!

Volcom Ripe Stripe Black V-neck T-shirt $17.99 Get totally fresh surf style with the Ripe Stripe v-neck tee from Volcom featuring variegated horizontal striping across the chest!

Rusty Come On Down Boardshort - Black $35 You're the type of guy who's always down to surf. You'll wake up at any hour, skip out on work (within reason) and ditch less fun plans just so you can hit the waves. Rock boardies that support your surf-like-there's-no-tomorrow attitude with the Come On Down boardshorts from Rusty. These simple shorts feature microsuede fabric, a bungee lanyard with a wax comb, bottle opener and fin key combo and contrast drawstrings. Dress simply, and live life to the fullest.

Reef Ponto Beach Boardshort - Black $38 Get a classic look to match your classic surf moves with the Ponto Beach boardshorts from Reef. These ridiculously comfortable, quick-drying shorts feature a Pro-Am microfiber construction with rasta-toned repeated branding on the left leg and a silicone-laced tie front to keep them snug on your bod while you scope out the scene at your favorite seaside surf spot.

Lost Black Sheep Wax Comb and Fin Key $4 So, you're checking out the waves at your favorite spot, just minding your own business, when this bonny walks up with a board under her arm and asks if you have a wax comb she could borrow. You're kicking yourself for not having one with you. It's not like they're expensive! Grab this Black Sheep wax comb from Lost, so you don't become the black sheep of your surf family. If this ever happens again, you'll be prepared. It even features a fin key, thereby doubling your ability to help lovely surf goddesses in need!

Dakine Point Black Backpack $50 Go from school to the surf with ease when you keep all your necessities in this Point backpack by Dakine! It features a seam sealed wetsuit pocket, an organizer compartment and skate carry straps so you'll have everything you need for every aspect of your life.

Dakine Point Backpack - Black $50 Go from school to the surf with ease when you keep all your necessities in this Point backpack by Dakine! It features a seam-sealed wetsuit pocket, an organizer compartment and skate carry straps so you'll have everything you need for every aspect of your life.

Volcom Armstrong Solid Black 4-Way Stretch Boardshort $49.5 Beef up on some serious surf attitude with these Armstrong boardshorts by Volcom. With bursting logo graphics in a metallic screen print, 4-way stretch and no inseams, they've raised the bar for performance-driven comfort and style.

Rip Curl Take Over Black Boardshort $29.99 If you'd rather let your surf skills get you noticed than some loud, obnoxious pattern on your baggies, the classic Take Over boardshorts from Rip Curl are just the thing!

Alpinestars Aqualung Black Full Zip Jacket $86 Breathe easy in the Aqualung jacket from Alpinestars! Featuring ribbed collar and cuffs, three front pockets with offset buttons and sueded silicone label, this quilted jacket is the perfect accessory for a surf dude trying to survive the winter months!